Opioid Pain Control Epidemic Examined at SE•ED June 6

Opioid Pain Control Epidemic Examined

More people died from drug overdoses in 2014 than in any year on record. The majority of drug overdose deaths (more than six out of ten) involve opioids, which are prescription pain medications. Healthcare providers play a critical role in changing this epidemic. Jennifer Paisley, MD, Grinnell Regional Internal Medicine, will present at the Grinnell Regional Medical Center Senior Education Program. She will explain the epidemic and address ways to prevent future deaths. The public is welcome to hear her program on Monday, June 6.

The most common drugs involved in prescription opioid overdose deaths include: Methadone, Oxycodone (such as OxyContin®), and Hydrocodone (such as Vicodin®).

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, to reverse this epidemic, America needs to improve the way we treat pain. We must prevent abuse, addiction, and overdose before they start.

Paisley joined the Grinnell Regional Internal Medicine clinic in April 2016. She grew up in Grinnell. She has been practicing in Newton for the past two years.

This program is free and open to the public. It will be held at 10 a.m. in the Drake Community Library, with refreshments beginning at 9:30 a.m.

Parking is available at the Drake Community Library, along Park Street, on Fifth Avenue, and in the First Presbyterian Church parking lot. Seniors needing transportation may call GRMC Communications and Development at 641-236-2593 by the Thursday before the program.